Ep 12. Welcome to New York

Detective Andy Sipowicz is back with his team in the NYPD Blue season 7 episode 12 titled "Welcome to New York." The episode welcomes a new member to the squad, Detective Adrienne Lesniak, who just transferred from the 15th Precinct to the 34th Precinct.

As the title suggests, the episode focuses on the new detective's arrival and the challenges she faces as a police officer in New York City. Lesniak quickly realizes that the 34th Precinct is a very different place from where she used to work - she has to adapt to the new environment, the new colleagues, and a slightly different investigative approach.

At first, Adrienne Lesniak isn't exactly welcomed with open arms by her new colleagues - especially by the veteran Det. Sipowicz, who is somewhat resistant to change and has a bit of a chip on his shoulder. However, as Lesniak proves herself to be more than capable on the job, Sipowicz softens his attitude towards her and begins to view her as an asset to the team.

While Lesniak is busy trying to get settled in at the precinct, the detectives continue to work on a difficult case involving a murdered businessman. The investigation takes them into New York's seedy underworld of illegal gambling, where they encounter dangerous gangsters and mob bosses. The team struggles to determine which of the suspects is responsible for the murder and ultimately, to bring the culprit to justice.

As the investigation progresses, tensions begin to flare up between the team members, with some suspecting others of having ulterior motives. Lesniak finds herself right in the middle of the conflict, trying to navigate the politics of the precinct and convince her colleagues to work together to solve the case.

In addition to the main case, "Welcome to New York" also highlights the personal lives of the characters. Det. Sipowicz deals with his ongoing relationship issues, while Det. Simone continues to struggle with his addiction to painkillers. The episode also introduces a new romance between Det. Medavoy and an attractive prosecutor, which adds a bit of levity to the otherwise heavy material.

Overall, NYPD Blue season 7 episode 12 is a poignant and complex episode that offers a glimpse into the challenges faced by police officers in New York City. The addition of a new character to the team gives the series a fresh perspective, and the tension between the detectives adds an extra layer of intrigue to the already captivating story. With equal measures of drama, action, and heart, "Welcome to New York" is a standout episode in an already excellent season of the series.